Nigerian Academic Libraries Research Articles

Librarians’ Readiness for Artificial Intelligence Integration in Nigerian Academic Libraries: A Review of Literature

Librarians’ Readiness for Artificial Intelligence Integration in Nigerian Academic Libraries: A Review of Literature

Moderating the role of trust toward intention to adopt cloud computing by academic libraries in North-Eastern Nigerian

Cloud computing has since been recognized as a robust technology that speeds and simplifies organizational service delivery. But its adoption especially in African countries and academic libraries is still at the nascent stage. This study aims to find the contributing determinants of cloud computing adoption in North-Eastern Nigerian academic libraries using Technological and Organizational variables of Technology-Organization-Environment theory(TOE) and Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOI). A quantitative approach using a survey research design was employed. Seventy-eight academic libraries in North-Eastern Nigeria formed the population of the study and census enumeration is used which indicates that all the academic libraries are considered. Results revealed that five out of six determinants are significant for the adoption of cloud computing in academic libraries. While moderation effect results revealed that only one determinant is moderated by the adopted moderator. This implies that the significant determinants should be given more consideration when deciding to adopt cloud computing. Equally, the study’s results will guide academic libraries’ decision-makers that include the Chief Librarian, Deputy Librarian and Head of ICT unit who are responsible for deciding on the rejection or accepting innovative technology in the library to make fruitful and realistic decisions when deciding to adopt cloud computing. Theoretically, the results will contribute to the body of knowledge especially in the librarianship field. Finally, the study recommends among others that special attention should be given to those significant determinants when deciding to adopt cloud computing in academic libraries. Future studies should employ more variables and use another factor as a moderator. Equally future studies should cover more areas beyond North-Eastern Nigeria.

Green Initiative and Environmental Sustainability in South South Nigerian Academic Libraries

Green initiative is a global phenomenon and one of the UN 2030 sustainable development goals on environmental sustainability. The green library is gradually being popularized because of the eco degradation that is ongoing globally. This study explores the level of awareness of librarians, availability and strategies employed by libraries for green initiatives. Three research questions and hypotheses guided the study. A descriptive survey research design method was used for the study. The population of the study is 102 librarians in South South federal University libraries using census sampling technique. The instrument (GIESAL) questionnaire was used to elicit information from the respondents. Data collected from the study were analyzed using weighted mean scores to determine the respondents' level of agreement on a particular item for the research questions. The hypotheses were tested using the z test at 0.05 significance level l. The findings revealed that the level of awareness of greening library among librarians is low, insufficient fund, lack of initiative and absence of sustainable policies. In conclusion the green initiative for environmental sustainability available in the libraries are sustainable sites, indoor environmental policy, innovation in design, water efficiency, solar and wind energy, which enhances sustainability of library resources.. The study recommended among others that there is a need to create more awareness for greening in libraries generally and employ strategic methods and planning sessions to ensure sustainability

Implementation of information technology in academic libraries in Nigeria: Benefits, challenges and solutions

Information technology has undergone tremendous advancement in recent decades. The power brought forward by the developments in information technology (IT) has seen its adoption across all sectors of the economy, with its implementation resulting in unprecedented efficiency. In Nigeria, implementing IT, especially in the education sector, remains one of the library’s objectives to enhance human capacity through access to digitized information. Academic libraries’, being at the forefront of providing information, implementing IT are inevitable and enhances service delivery. However, the implementation of information technology in Nigerian academic libraries has been characterized by numerous challenges affecting their capacity to efficiently deliver services to their users. The established processes for implementing information technology in these institutions include inadequate funds to purchase and maintain IT equipment, power interruptions, low computer literacy among librarians, and poor internet connectivity. Fortunately, adequate staff training and exploring alternative energy sources include some appropriate solutions to the identified challenges.

Capabilities and Apparent Implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Adoption in Nigerian Academic Libraries

Objective. This paper discusses the capabilities and implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigerian academic libraries. The study emphasizes the importance of libraries using new technologies to improve their operations and services, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. Methods. The research conducted a literature review to examine the capabilities of AI in libraries and its impact on academic libraries. Results. Various AI tools such as natural language recognition, robotics, big data, and machine learning were identified. AI can revolutionize library services, improve information quality, increase productivity, and provide virtual assistance. However, there are challenges to the adoption of AI in Nigerian academic libraries, including high costs, resistance to change, poor network connectivity, privacy and ethical implications, and a lack of supportive cultures. To fully exploit the benefits of AI, libraries must develop plans and policies, train librarians with the necessary skills, and address the challenges associated with AI adoption. Conclusions. AI holds great advantages to enhancing library services in Nigeria, but careful planning and preparation are needed.

Application of emerging technologies for research support in Nigerian academic libraries: Trends, problems and prospects

Academic libraries in the modern era are often asked to justify their existence in tertiary institutions by showing how the institution and society at large have benefited from the library services. One main area that librarians often point to is the research productivity of members of academic institutions. However, studies have shown that research productivity among Nigerian scholars is low, which means that academic libraries have to be more innovative in supporting researchers in their domains. Emerging technologies offer innovative ways of supporting research activities by providing tools and resources that streamline the research process and ensure proper visibility for research outputs of academic library clients. This article, which is based on a review of previous studies, explores various areas where academic libraries in Nigeria can apply emerging technologies, the likely challenges, and strategies that can be adopted to ensure sustainable use of emerging technologies in academic libraries. It has been found that emerging technologies can enhance existing library services and create new ones, such as data mining, data management, and scholarly communication, among others. However, although steps are being taken by academic librarians in Nigerian tertiary institutions to leverage technology in providing the needed support for researchers, the pace of technology adoption is still slow and the range of technologies being adopted is limited compared to available options. This state of affairs has been attributed to challenges such as lack of infrastructure, librarians’ skills, and a negative attitude towards change. The study recommends a multidimensional approach to the application of emerging technologies in Nigerian academic libraries

Cloud Computing: a tool for effective records and information management system in Nigerian academic libraries

Academic libraries, as part of their traditional responsibility, engage in the collection and generation of data and records with a various degree of sensitivity and usefulness. This study examined the importance of library record and advocates for the implementation of cloud computing technology as a viable alternative to other mode of record storage. Cloud computing as a record management tool will help preserve the myriad of records generated from the daily activities of libraries. The paper also identified the danger of paper or electronic method of information storage. It argued that information stored in this format is susceptible to loss by theft, fire or computer viruses, hard drive collapse as well as the destruction of local library internet server due to poor maintenance culture on the part of the personnel. Apart from the data backup function, remote accessibility of these record is another key consideration for cloud computing utility in library record management. In view of the vast potential, especially in the area of its elastic storage capability, it is highly recommended for all academic libraries in the country. However, it is observed that the cost of data and irregular power supply are some of the challenges facing its adoption in Nigeria, as along with the vulnerability to cyber-attacks which may lead to a partial or total loss of record. In these regards, it is further recommended that cloud computing, as a service platform, is adopted as a backup platform rather than a sole tool for record and data management in academic libraries.

Conceptualizing hybrid model for influencing intention to adopt cloud computing in North-Eastern Nigerian academic libraries

The understanding of cloud computing adoption in academic libraries in North-Eastern Nigeria is still unclear. Therefore, this research combines two technology adoption theories of technology-organizational-environmental and diffusion of innovation (TOE-DOI) theories to identify the influencing factors and develop a model for the adoption of cloud computing in academic libraries. A quantitative technique using survey design was adopted and previously used scales were adapted and formulated structured questionnaires. The study population comprises decision-makers from North-Eastern Nigerian academic libraries and purposive sampling was used in selecting 212 sample respondents where 192 were found usable. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and Partial Least Square–Structured Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used for analyzing the data. Findings revealed that all the independent variables (relative advantage, compatibility, technophobia, government regulations and competitive pressure) were significant factors in the adoption of cloud computing in academic libraries. In contrast, the moderating variable (perceived trust) was found to be insignificant in all the relationships. Based on this finding, it is recommended that the significant factors should be given serious attention when deciding to adopt cloud computing by academic libraries. The moderating variable should be tested in future studies to ascertain its effect in that context.

Bridging Knowledge Gaps through Embedded Librarianship Practices in Nigerian Universities

This study investigates the role of embedded librarianship in the production and diffusion of knowledge in Nigerian universities. A quantitative approach was adopted using a cross-sectional survey design with a sample of 187 library staff drawn from a population of 370 library staff from three university libraries. The findings reveal that the types of embedded librarianship practices adopted in the universities include faculty embedded librarianship, research and bibliographic services embedded librarianship, and information literacy embedded librarianship. Knowledge production and dissemination were enhanced by the practice of embedded librarianship through fostering collaboration between embedded faculties and the library, improving students’ research and information searching skills, and participating in teaching information literacy skills. The findings also revealed that phones, emails, web forums/blogs/wikis, instant messaging services, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), social networking sites and face-to-face discussions were the means of communication and interaction between the embedded librarians and their clients in the three universities. The implications of this study will serve as a springboard for adopting and strengthening the practice of embedded librarianship among Nigerian academic libraries since the concept is new and emerging globally, thereby bridging the knowledge gaps that exist between the haves and have nots in terms of knowledge in the Nigerian higher education sub-sector.

Investigating librarians’ intention to use artificial intelligence for effective library service delivery: A partial least square-structural equation modeling-based approach

Due to the information exploration coupled with the increased number of library users across the globe, servicing the users efficiently and in a simple manner became difficult, leading librarians to think of a better alternative. Artificial intelligence is one of the best options to mitigate issues of inefficient service delivery but has not been used enough in most Nigerian academic libraries and specifically North-eastern Nigerian academic libraries. This research, therefore, aims at examining the factors that can influence the librarians’ intention to use artificial intelligence in their libraries for better and more efficient service delivery to library patrons using the theoretical lenses of the Theory of Plan Behaviour (TPB). A quantitative method using a cross-sectional approach was adopted and a questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. Three federal university libraries from North-eastern Nigeria were covered and 242 professionals and para-professionals librarians composed the population of the research. G*Power application was used to estimate the minimum sample size of the research amounting to 119 samples thus, a proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used in obtaining the sampling. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20 and Partial Least Square – Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that TPB’s theoretical variables were positively significant factors that influenced the librarians’ intention to use Artificial Intelligence in their respective libraries. Equally, the finding further revealed that the librarians indicated a high intention to use artificial intelligence in their libraries. The use of more advanced theory, the inclusion of more samples and considering a specific artificial intelligence tool were recommended for future research.

Emergence of robotic technologies: implications for Nigerian academic libraries

PurposeLibraries may become obsolete in the 21st century unless they begin to harness new technology and improve information and service delivery. This paper aims to examine the emergence of robotic technologies with its implications to academic libraries in Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachThe research, which was conducted on a desk, examined how the adoption of robotic technologies may affect library services and operations.FindingsIt is believed that robot adoption in libraries can enhance library services and give users with reliable information that can foster growth and development in the information age.Originality/valueThis paper is the original idea from the authors and does not reflect on any copyrighted materials. The paper recommended that academic libraries should collaborate with their parent institutions or organisations to create a strategy plan for cutting-edge technology, such as robots; federal and state governments should strengthen their alliances with robot vendors to take advantage of direct support; and open communication between library management boards and librarians should be encouraged, particularly when it comes to the acceptance and use of robots in libraries.

Awareness: a strategic tool for the implementation of green libraries by academic librarians

This study sought to examine the importance of awareness in the adoption and implementation of green libraries in academic libraries in Nigeria. The key objectives were to determine academic librarians’ awareness of the concept of green libraries, ascertain if greening libraries is a good innovation for adoption and implementation, ascertain reasons for the slow adoption and implementation of green libraries by academic librarians in Nigeria and to identify strategies for enhancing green library implementation in Nigerian academic libraries. The methodology used was the descriptive survey research design while all the 170 academic librarians in the twelve university libraries across the six states of the North Central geo-political zone of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja formed the population of the study. Questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection. Data obtained were analyzed using simple percentages, mean scores and standard deviation. Various suggestions were made on how to create awareness and use it as a strategic tool in the implementation of green libraries in academic libraries. The paper concluded that implementing green libraries will enhance the visibility and value of libraries in society by showcasing their ability to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability and development issues, thereby demonstrating their continued relevance to humanity.

Relevance of Big Data Analytics in Nigerian Academic Libraries: University of Ilorin Library Experience

This paper reviewed the concept of big data with reference to the University of Ilorin, North-Central, Nigeria. In the study that directed this paper, a descriptive design was employed and thematic analysis was done on the information obtained through key informant interviews. The population of this study consisted of the two systems librarians who work in the electronic library (e-library) unit of the university library. The characteristics of big data, based on the V characteristics, were examined, as well as the various types of data sets found in academic libraries. The findings of the study revealed that while big data sets exist in libraries in Nigeria, none of the big data software was available in the library studied. The findings also revealed the various methods used by the University of Ilorin Library in generating big data. Also, the main challenges confronting the management of big data in the University of Ilorin Library include inadequate funding, insufficient infrastructure, and inadequate software tools for managing big data. The need to re-skill library practitioners in this new technology, as a means of surmounting challenges in service delivery in university libraries, was recommended.

Perspectives of Librarians on Awareness and Readiness of Academic Libraries to Integrate Artificial Intelligence for Library Operations and Services in Nigeria

This study examined the perspectives of librarians on the awareness and readiness of academic libraries to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) for library operations and services in Nigeria. Six libraries were drawn from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. An open-ended questionnaire posted to the respondents through the mail was used for data collection. Collected data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that the Nigerian academic libraries are aware of the integration of AI systems in libraries and how it is now being adopted and used in many academic libraries around the globe. However, this is not so in the Nigerian context. The findings also reveal that the librarians have mixed feelings about the readiness of academic libraries to integrate AI systems into library operations and services. Based on the librarian perception, the result implies that integration of AI in library operation and services will take the library to the next level by reducing human errors due to repetitiveness in library tasks, and if care is not taken, AI system might take their job role. The challenges reported that academic libraries in Nigeria may likely face the problem of funding, inadequate experts, limited power supply, limited budget to procure the technology and training personnel that will be in charge of the system maintenance. The study recommends the need for adequate funding for libraries to be able to procure, AI and other information and communication technology infrastructure; and recruitment of librarians with relevant requisite skills to work with the technology.

Sustainability of digital collections for Nigerian academic libraries: An exploration of conception, indicators for fulfillment and accrued benefits

Collection management in libraries has evolved alongside the developments of the new technologies effecting libraries. As digital collections are increasingly becoming the preferred resources by remote library users, librarians are faced with the challenge of proving a seamless continuation of efficient accessibility to these digital collections over time. This study aims to explore librarians’ understanding of the sustainability of digital collections, the criteria for its fulfilment, and their perspectives on the accrued benefits of the practice. The study employs a qualitative approach, with purposive sampling of 25 experienced librarians and library ICT personnel from three federal universities in Nigeria. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups discussions were used in the data collection. Result reveals that the academic librarians are insightful about what it means by sustaining digital collections in their respective universities. The themes generated are the provision of access, digitization, preservation, task functions, and services. The criteria to be achieved for the sustainability of digital collections, includes skilled manpower, professional development, defined roles, ICT infrastructure, funding, and maintenance. The movement for sustaining digital collections in academic libraries in Nigeria will benefit the library’s reputation, improve the services offered, aid in the preservation of the collections, promote resource sharing, and reduce time and cost. The study suggests that academic librarians need ongoing training to keep them abreast of the latest technology for crucial understanding in a bid to sustain their digital collections.

Instructors’ Competence and Responsiveness in Multimedia in Teaching-Learning Process in the Context of College of Education at Ifugao State University Potia-Campus

This study aimed to ascertain the instructors’ competence and the responsiveness of the instructors in utilizing multimedia in the teaching-learning process, benefits, issues, and the extended support by the administrator among College of Education instructors of Ifugao State University Potia Campus. Descriptive research was used in this study. There were 41 respondents in this study using total enumeration technique. Weighted mean was utilized to determine the extent of responsiveness of the instructors in terms of the utilization of multimedia. The findings of the study underscore with instructors’ role in the educative process in the 21st century, because integrating multimedia is indeed challenging. With the shift of major emphasis from the instructors as source of knowledge in ICT, a new set of competencies can be identified as components of the personality of the instructors, all of which epitomize the whole range of the instructors’ roles and functions by knowing the benefits of computer and technology in teaching. In the performance of their functions as techno-savvy in teaching, instructors look forward to enhancing their skills in computer and technology. Hence, instructors should be motivated and encouraged to pursue their studies in the graduate studies program to further gain insights, knowledge, and other new trends in coping with the difficult concerns they encounter in the performance of their functions. Programs and innovations are needed to enhance the competence of the instructors in utilizing multimedia in pedagogical praxis. References Blair, S. (2014). Multimedia: Making It Work . Osborne/McGraw-Hill, Berkeley, pg. 3. Dubois, M., & Vial, I. (2015). Multimedia design: the effects of relating multi modal information. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 16, 157-165. Duderstadt, H. L. (2018). Learning, Teaching, and Scholarship in a Digital age: Web 2.0 and Classroom Research: What Path Should We Take Now? Educational Researcher, Vol. 38, No. 4, pp. 246 – 259 Elisha, M. J. (2016) The application of Information and Communication Technology(ICT) In Nigerian academic libraries prospects and problems. The Information Manager Vol.6 (1) 35-39. Gilakjani, A. P. (2012). The significant role of multimedia in motivating EFL learners’ interest in English language learning. J.Modern Education and Computer Science, 4, 57-66. Kasper, K. L. (2017). Reading, Language Acquisition, and Film JACARANDA, Milton, Queensland, Australia. pp.102. Kozma, R. B. (2015). Learning with media. Review of Educational Research, 61, 179- 211 Mayer, R., & Moreno, R. (2003). Nine ways to reduce cognitive load in multimedia learning. Educational Psychologist, 38, 1, 43-52. Morrison, M., Sweeney, A., & Hefferman, T. (2003). Learning styles of on-campus and off-campus marketing students: The challenge for marketing educators. In Journal of Marketing Education, 25, 3, 208-217 Rogers, L. & Wild, R. (2016). Data-logging: effects on practical science. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 12, 130-145. Sankey, M. D. (2006). A neomillennial learning approach: Helping non-traditional learners studying at a distance. The International Journal of Education and Development using Information and Communication Technology (IJEDICT), 2, 4, 82-99. Supic, D.T. (2017). The Foundation Reports on Digital Media and Learning: The Future of Learning Institutions in a Digital Age. The MIT Press Cambridge, Massachusetts London, England pg. 11-17. Tennent, Lee (2013). Multimedia: perception and use in the pre-service instructors’ education. Center for innovation in education. Queen University of Technology, Brisbane, Queenland, Australia. Vaughan, S. (2018). Multimedia: Making It Work. Osborne/McGraw-Hill, Berkeley, pg. 3.   Woheren, H. (2015). An Adaptive Multimedia System for Teaching Fundamentals of Finite Element Method Using the Case-based Content Sequencing. Proceedings of the World Congress on Engineering Vol I WCE. London, U.K. pg 110.

Alternative funding sources for Nigerian academic libraries outside government sources in the post-recession economy: A new normal

Alternative funding sources for Nigerian academic libraries outside government sources in the post-recession economy: A new normal

Return on investment (ROI) in subscription databases by Nigerian academic libraries: a survey

Aim: There seems to be a dearth of literature on how much Nigerian university libraries are spending on the acquisition of Online Electronic Database (OED). This study sets out to investigate the annual cost of acquiring this important and evolving aspect of library collection with the view of determining whether the returns in terms of utilization is commensurate with the invested fund. Methodology: The study adopts a quantitative research method. A self-developed questionnaire was used to collect data from 55 librarians in 41 academic libraries across Nigeria. The data collected were processed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Findings: Academic libraries in Nigeria spend an average of ₦12,500,000 or $32,637 on OED subscriptions annually. The study has shown that Nigerian academic libraries usually subscribe to the EBSCOhost and Research4Life databases with few adding specialized databases such as Law Pavilion, HeinOnline, Legalpedia, and ScienceDirect. To ensure adequate returns on investment, the libraries are massively providing support infrastructures, user education, and other information services. However, challenges limiting the widespread use of online databases include irregular power supply and slow internet connectivity among others. Conclusions: The study, therefore, concludes that there is a middling to low return on subscribed OED in Nigerian academic libraries. However, there are still various huddles that must be scaled for Nigerian academic libraries to reap adequate returns on their investments in online electronic databases.

Nexus of Nigerian Academic Libraries and Online Education in the Pandemic Era

The study investigated library services rendered by Nigerian university libraries in support of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. To this end, three research questions guided the conduct of the study. The study adopted a descriptive research design for a population of 80 academic librarians in selected university libraries in South-South and South-West geo-political zone of Nigeria. Data were collected using an online questionnaire and a total enumeration sampling technique was used. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics such as frequency count and simple percentage. A total of 100 academic librarians were sent the online questionnaire and 80 librarians responded to the questionnaire given a total response rate of 80%. The findings revealed that vital library services were rendered in support of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. These services include provision of links to other open-source library resources, reference and information services, seamless and organized access to e-resources, creating awareness about emerging technologies for teaching and learning, providing links to access several e-resources directly from the publisher’s websites, information literacy skills, spread news and service alerts, online workshop and tutorials, providing training to lecturers on the use of online platforms for teaching, live chat with the students and conducting orientation for the new students. Furthermore, the study showed that most of the services rendered by academic libraries during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown were rendered occasionally due to the problems faced by libraries in services delivery which includes poor funding, epileptic power supply, lack of adequate support from the government, and inadequate library infrastructure. Thus, the study recommended that the government should have a total commitment to libraries in general by providing adequate funding for infrastructural development, recruitment of competent librarians, and improved welfare packages for effective library service delivery. Therefore, governments at all levels should make library development a top priority.

A Structural Equation Modeling Approach to Evaluating Library Personnel Intention to Adopt Big Data Technology in Nigerian Academic Libraries

Big data technology has gained prominence among academia and organizations around the world. As libraries continue to receive data from different sources like physical and electronic books and journals, recordings, maps, field trip documentation, and a host of others, big data technology becomes essential in managing all these datasets. However, much is unknown about its adoption among library personnel in academic libraries in Nigerian tertiary institutions. Thus, the research examined librarians’ behavioral intentions to adopt big data technology in Nigerian universities. Data were collected through a questionnaire distributed to 317 library personnel. The hypothesized relationships in the model were tested using the Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM). The results show that performance expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions influence behavioral intention to adopt big data technology. Contrarily, effort expectancy does not influence behavioral intention to adopt big data technology. With 50% of the variance in library personnel’s intention to use big data technology explained by this model, it could help determine factors that could influence big data technology acceptance and use in academic libraries.